Almost all modern cars now have an electric handbrake. Despite this, many are still fond of the old and traditional handbrake. Let's find out the differences and which is the best system and if there is a better system.

All automotive enthusiasts of a certain age know very well how the use of the handbrake can also be creative. Clearly we are talking about things that are not really appropriate and that should not be done while traveling on public roads.

Rally drivers also know very well how the handbrake can be used to make evolutions with the car clearly in a safe situation and in areas closed to the public.

Technology has evolved considerably and almost all modern cars are now marketed with an electric handbrake. As soon as we get into a car, we immediately notice how the latter no longer has the handbrake lever, but simply has a button that must be pressed or pulled according to the moment to engage or disengage the electric handbrake.

In concrete terms, the electric handbrake includes an electric motor that replaces the manual mechanical control that locks the parking brake.

There are basically two electric handbrake systems. The first has a structure that acts directly on the steel tie rods that operate the rear brake.

The second engineering theory instead contemplates two electric motors that close the pads on the disc. Currently the most used is the latter we have seen.

Depending on the type of car and also depending on the range of belonging of the latter to a more or less premium sector, the electric handbrake is also able to automatically enter into operation.

Obviously it happens every time the machine is turned off, which is placed in a safety situation by activating the electric handbrake independently.

The advantages of the electric handbrake are certainly the convenience and avoid having a bulky lever inside the passenger compartment. It is also very convenient for all those situations in which it takes over automatically. In terms of maintenance, it is no longer necessary to periodically adjust the brake cables and check their wear.

Furthermore, the electric handbrake is used a lot for what concerns the moment of starting uphill, as it works together with the various systems of the various car manufacturers for uphill starts.

The disadvantages are basically a lack of sportsmanship, which is a niche aspect anyway. An important aspect, however, on which few reflect, is that the handbrake is still a very important active safety system.

If we need to have an extra brake, in an emergency situation, the traditional handbrake can help us, unlike the electric one.

What to choose? Unfortunately, technology does not allow us to choose between the electric handbrake and the traditional handbrake. When we buy a new car, this aspect cannot be chosen by the customer.

For technology lovers it is certainly progress, but also for all those who love greater comfort inside the car. If, on the other hand, you are a sports enthusiast, you would like to work with the traditional handbrake, the electric one is certainly "not optimal".